Safety concerns over new traffic island on Aberdeen road

Concerns have been raised over a new traffic island on an Aberdeen road.

The island, on the Lang Stracht, near Tesco, was installed as part of a traffic signal refurbishment scheme.

But Councillor Steve Delaney, who represents Sheddocksley and Kingswells, has reported concerns about the island to council officers, as he says it is off-centre.

Mr Delaney has said drivers have had to move into the next lane of traffic to avoid hitting the crossing, and has described the positioning of the island as “concerning”.

He said: “The problem that we have is that for some reason, the island has extended into the right hand lane.

“If you go forward, you have to stray into the left hand lane to avoid it, and you risk running into oncoming traffic.

“It’s a significant safety concern, and I have raised the issue with officers.

“I have seen it myself and it is certainly quite concerning, it’s pretty obvious that there is not enough space for a car to fit.”

Mr Delaney said that he believes the placement of the island was a mistake, saying: “I would expect the council to correct it as a matter of urgency.”

However, a council spokesman said the island was “positioned correctly.”

He said: “Work is ongoing to refurbish the traffic signals at the junction, which has included the installation of the new island.

“This is positioned correctly and will be the subject of additional road markings to aid the flow of traffic. Due to the volume of traffic, the lining work is restricted to weekends and evenings but will be completed as soon as possible.”

Mr Delaney was “surprised” to hear the island was not mistakenly placed.

He said: “I’m very surprised to hear that. In my opinion, this is a safety issue. I have significant concerns and it will take a lot to satisfy me that the situation is safe.

“As far as I’m concerned it’s an unsafe design, and it needs to be put right.”